Los Angeles Clippers vs. Houston Rockets: Live Score, Highlights and Analysis

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 107-97 Saturday night behind a scorching start on their home floor. 

After approximately 15 minutes of game time, Houston led 43-17. The defense was scrambling, the transition offense was humming and the passing and shooting was crisp. However, a Hack-a-Howard and Hack-a-Capela strategy by Clippers head coach Doc Rivers was extremely successful in the second quarter, closing the gap to 57-46 by halftime.

In the second half, a combination of fouls mounting on key players and the overall ineffectiveness of the story caused Doc to stop it. The Rockets then coasted to victory with the aid of some timely Trevor Ariza shots (17 points).

Overall, Dwight Howard (22 points, 14 rebounds in 26 minutes) was the man of the match for Houston, despite his poor 6-of-16 shooting from the free-throw line. James Harden scored just 18 points, but his 11 assists helped keep the Houston offense flowing once the Clippers had stormed back.

For the Clippers, Blake Griffin (22 points, eight rebounds, six assists), DeAndre Jordan (16 points and 11 rebounds) and J.J. Redick (19 points) led the charge.

The 14-14 Rockets next play against the Charlotte Hornets at home Monday night at 8 p.m. ET. The 16-12 Clippers, on the other hand, go back home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder Monday night at 10:30 p.m. ET.